The 60th Art Biennale in the Venetian Gardens has attracted throngs of visitors from around the world, with long queues forming for the national pavilion vernissages. The event’s theme, “Foreigners are everywhere,” sets the backdrop for a diverse array of artistic presentations.
Amidst the bustling crowds, security remains a paramount concern, with armed Italian soldiers and police officers stationed throughout the grounds. Special patrols with canine units ensure a vigilant watch, particularly around the pavilions.
Notable attention has been drawn to the Polish pavilion, where the video installation “Repeat after me II” presents poignant recordings and testimonies of civilian witnesses to the war in Ukraine. Visitors emerge deeply moved by the experience, reflecting on the harrowing realities depicted.
One attendee, Olena, expresses heartfelt gratitude to Poland for providing shelter to her relatives and extending support to Ukrainian artists.
“I’m from Kyiv, I fled at the beginning of the full-scale war. Now I live in Italy and I have no words to express my gratitude to Poland for giving shelter to my relatives, and for even providing their pavilion at the Biennale to artists from Ukraine,” she said.
Tears fill the eyes of many as they exit the pavilion, profoundly affected by the immersive portrayal of the conflict.
Meanwhile, geopolitical dynamics shape the exhibition landscape, with Russia notably absent for another year. Its pavilion has been entrusted to Bolivia, offering insights into the techniques of cotton collection and production.
Among the standout showcases is the Hungarian pavilion, featuring Marton Nemes’s vibrant works inspired by techno and rave aesthetics. The French pavilion sees artist Julien Creuzet sharing his narrative through his art, while the British pavilion confronts themes of racism, colonialism, and climate change through the lens of multidisciplinary artist John Akomfrah.
A notable highlight comes from the United States, with artist Jeffrey Gibson representing the Cherokee indigenous people. His exhibition garners significant interest, drawing a diverse audience, including those dressed in traditional attire.
As the Venice Biennale continues to captivate audiences, its role as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange remains central, offering a space for reflection and dialogue amidst a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Notable attention has been drawn to the Polish pavilion, where the video installation “Repeat after me II” presents poignant recordings and testimonies of civilian witnesses to the war in Ukraine. Visitors emerge deeply moved by the experience, reflecting on the harrowing realities depicted.
One attendee, Olena, expresses heartfelt gratitude to Poland for providing shelter to her relatives and extending support to Ukrainian artists.
“I’m from Kyiv, I fled at the beginning of the full-scale war. Now I live in Italy and I have no words to express my gratitude to Poland for giving shelter to my relatives, and for even providing their pavilion at the Biennale to artists from Ukraine,” she said.
Tears fill the eyes of many as they exit the pavilion, profoundly affected by the immersive portrayal of the conflict.
Meanwhile, geopolitical dynamics shape the exhibition landscape, with Russia notably absent for another year. Its pavilion has been entrusted to Bolivia, offering insights into the techniques of cotton collection and production.
Among the standout showcases is the Hungarian pavilion, featuring Marton Nemes’s vibrant works inspired by techno and rave aesthetics. The French pavilion sees artist Julien Creuzet sharing his narrative through his art, while the British pavilion confronts themes of racism, colonialism, and climate change through the lens of multidisciplinary artist John Akomfrah.
A notable highlight comes from the United States, with artist Jeffrey Gibson representing the Cherokee indigenous people. His exhibition garners significant interest, drawing a diverse audience, including those dressed in traditional attire.
As the Venice Biennale continues to captivate audiences, its role as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange remains central, offering a space for reflection and dialogue amidst a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Source: TVP World, PAP
More In Culture MORE...
